I never thought it could be done!

But I have found it! This book is basically Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, in book form!!! Penned by a husband and wife team who also have a regular column in Gourmet magazine, they travel the country and eat at different places then write about it and compile them all in a book. First of all, what a sweet job! Secondly I really liked it, even if I only read the portions with California and Washington in it. But this book does have every single state, and it was fun reading about the good places to eat in Washington, most of which are in Seattle. I highly suggest picking this book up. $14.93

And I'm very excited for tomorrow!! What's tomorrow you ask? You'll just have to read and see! =)

Why so serious?

So apparently, people are tiring of product reviews, namely Not My Dad and someone who can only be referred to as Not My Mom (who rudely diverted people to Leah Remini's blog. But what can you expect?) Although, I was just thinking today, when my favorite blog BunnyShop does their beauty product reviews, they spread them out periodically, not all in a row.

Today was supposed to be about Diorshow Iconic Mascara, but I only picked it up today and haven't had a chance to try it out. Besides, people are tired about hearing about make-up.

So, in place of that, what movies have people seen lately and are they only good? I plan on seeing Mamma Mia! and/or Journey to the Center of the Earth (secret Brendan Fraser fan!) on Friday and The Dark Knight on Saturday. Personally, I am probably the only one who has not seen it. But anyways, movie, reviews, etc, feel free to leave them in the comments section!

It's only Tuesday?

Because we have been thinking: "We want the Vera Wang Princess fragrance! But we don't want to spend $42 on it, especially when we still have our sample Juicy Couture fragrance!"

Beauty Product: Vera Wang "Princess Perfect Pair"

What Sephora (where I bought it) says its does: "Created for the playful, unpredictable, independent woman who treats every day like an event and adventure. This is a woman who likes to make her own magic, this sheer, flirty blend of water lily, lady apple, mandarin meringue, and golden apricot skin are melded with sheer floral notes, accented with dark chocolate, and finished with a pink frosting accord, amber, warm woods, musk, and vanilla - a whimsical treat.When a Princess is out and about she needs her essentials with her! Presenting the Perfect Pair: one side is a .17 oz Roller Ball Eau de Toilette, the other side is a .17 oz pink lipgloss - perfect for primping and for the girl on the go. "

What we think: They really shouldn't put this in the checkout line at Sephora. I was all set with my basket full of make-up, and pouting a little about not having bought the Vera Wang Princess fragrance, when I saw this. And I love it! It was my favorite Sephora purchase. The end with the fragrance smells exactly as it should, and it's a roll on, making it verrry easy to apply. And the lipgloss end is good too, a very flattering color with a little bit of shimmer. And the lipgloss smells! It doesn't exactly smell like Vera Wang Princess, more like a fruity smell? But it's very alluring also. Anyways, I was very happy with this!
Stars(!): *****/5 Vera Wang Princess "Princess Perfect Pair", $25

And if you're wondering if I'm ever going to do anything besides product reviews, fear not! I am, perhaps by the end of this week, and certainly next week there is not a product review in sight.

Only Seven Days Away!

To what?! You'll just have to wait and see!!

Because we have been thinking: "Everyone has been saying how good this works!"

Beauty product: Imju Fiberwig Mascara

What Sephora (where I bought it) says its does: "Engineered to create the perfect lashes with twice the amount of micro-fine interconnecting fibers, the instant drying formula creates a long lasting film coat around your natural lashes. Fiberwig imparts a perfect, smudge-proof maximum lash extension effect with a water-resistant formula that's easy to remove with warm water, without risking damaging or losing your natural lashes."

What we think: So after my disappointment with the Inimitable mascara, I was weary of this. But the minute I put on the first coat I knew I was in for better results. True to it's word fiberwig separates every.single.lash. I didn't even know I had that many! And the box claimed I would have no more panda (raccoon) eyes. So I wore this to my five hour shift of work (where I stopped wearing mascara because I notoriously sweat it off. By the way this job was the first place I discovered you could sweat so much that it felt like your eyeballs were sweating) and also true to it's word, I did not have any smudges under my eyes after five hours of hard work. The only thing I will warn about is that the first coat is very separated but with my lashes I curl, coat, and then curl n' coat again. So the second coat did get a little clumpy. But other than that, I had few complaints!

Stars(!): ****/5 Imju Fiberwig Mascara, $22

I have discovered...

that my blog really appeals to a wide audience. And that that wide audience cannot be pleased every day. For instance, my dad could have cared less about my last product review. But he would love it if I went on and on about crock pots and food in general. But not to bash product reviews, my Aunt Elissa loved it. And I suppose she might love today's too =)

Because we have been thinking: "This is too good to be true!"
Beauty product: Tarte Enbrightenment Lip Gloss Duo
What Sephora (where I bought it) says its does: "Reach new levels of kiss bliss with Enbrightenment BriteSmile® Whitener & Tarte Lipgloss. One side contains Tarte's t5 super fruit™-infused lipgloss and the other contains BriteSmile®'s proprietary teeth-whitening formula for easy on the go application. The result will give you something to grin about—because a healthy smile is a woman's best accessory."
What we think: So as a concept, not a bad idea! I got Pearly Pink, Radiant Red was too dark for me. I tried the teeth whitener bit first, and it was ok, but once it starts to mix with your saliva, it gets really goopy in your mouth =( and I spit some out, so who knows how much whitener was left on my teeth. The lip gloss is a nice shade, although it's a bit of a shame there's only two color shades available. Also, it was a bit tricky to figure out the clicker thing in the middle, but it pertains to which end you can use. Also, I'm always sort of worried it will click in my purse and explode.
Stars(!): ***/5 Tarte Enbrightenment Lipgloss duo, $26

Also, whilst I was perusing Sephora I happened upon this! It is a case of seven mascaras in sample size. I, of the mascara obsessed and short lashed/deprived, want to buy it right away. I may have to buy it at Sephora, at the new part of Southcenter, which I am on my way to now! $28 Until Monday!

And the product review begins!

Because we have been thinking: "Sometimes drugstore mascara just doesn't cut it. And besides, it's so expensive, it must be good, right?"
Beauty product: CHANEL Inimitable Mascara
What Macy's (where I bought it) says its does: "Now, in a single stroke, CHANEL sets a new standard in mascara with a formula that does it all. A sophisticated formula and unique brush design combine to lengthen, plump and curl, delivering lush, long-wearing colour so precisely that each lash, even the finest, is perfectly defined and separated."
What we think: I am a sucker for ads. So between the ad for this and Shana Moakler's(of all people) recommendation, I decided to give this a shot. And I had a gift card. Ok, first of all the pushy sales lady walked over to pushover me and was all "that's a great lip gloss you're looking at! We just got it in yesterday". And then proceeded to let me try it on. It was lilac purple. And while it doesn't look purple on your lips, I still ended up buying that plus the mascara I intended to buy and wound up with an appointment with CHANEL artists tomorrow that I will probably skip. But ANYWAYS. Back to the mascara. I, for some reason, thought it would give me these great lashes. To it's credit, it made them intensely darker and more noticeable. But even when I curl my lashes it still does not make the mascara curl (maybe because it's so heavy?) so my lashes stick straight out instead of up. Not a good look. Not to mention the description says so itself that this mascara leaves every lash "defined and separated". This was not even close to happening to my lashes. The make-up lady claimed because my lashes were like hers (Side note: Why does every beautician say this to me when there's a problem? The woman who did my hair for my senior portrait said my hair was like hers and then proceeded to put in like 14 products in before she straightened it and it totally sucked. She was obviously wrong. And the MAC artist told me my skin was dry like hers then proceeded to sell me a three step foundation set of moisturizer, liquid foundation, and solid pressed powder foundation.) and that my lashes tend to intertwine, so it's hard to separate them. So I guess I can blame genetics, my brother got the prettiest and longest eyelashes in our family, fyi. And as for this mascara I was kind of disappointed.
Stars(!): **/5 Chanel Inimitable Mascara, $27.50





And for the next couple of days I will be mainly doing product reviews of items I got on my last make-up buying frenzy, mixed in with some other stuff.





Lastly, here is what Houndstooth looks like =)

So there's this lady

and I first saw her on the Rachel Ray Show (which I never normally watch because my mom has passed on a dislike of her and her voice to me, but I was getting a manicure and it was on in the shop so I had no choice). But anyways, my interest was piqued because I heard her say she was making creme brulee in a crock pot, and I love creme brulee! And then I watched the rest of the show and it turns out she's actually making something in the crock pot every day for a year. It's amazing really. And she's so funny and sarcastic so it's not like reading some random boring blog about crock pots, she makes it interesting. And every day she describes her recipe and shows pictures and shares her family's reaction. My favorite recipes to date have been Bacon and Cheese Chicken, Apple Dumplings, and Tapioca Pudding. So I highly suggest you check her out here!

*Note, I'm not sure if I ever mentioned this, but in all my blogs you can click on the different color words, and more often than not, the prices, to the see the source =)

Like Honestly?

A review of what happened at Orientation might be a little boring for you all. Plus it's kinda hard to explain, you kinda had to be there. But I guess what I'll do is put the itinerary of what happened followed by my comments. I'm hoping they won't all be "We heard a speech. It was boring".


9:30 Early Check in for Liturgy or Placement Exams ONLY

Of course my dad and I went to mass so we could check in early. Which worked out well because we actually got parking and it was already busy so imagine if we'd gotten there later.
10:00 Liturgy or Placement Exams


10:30 Check in for Orientation begins

Since we had time to kill when everyone was still checking in, we got a hot tip that there was free scones in the student center. And of course we went there and I had a blueberry muffin and my dad had a scone and tea. And of course he went back for another scone.


11:45 Welcome to Seattle University

This was a very boring and overly long speech. They snuck in one too many speakers in like a 15 minute period.


12:00 Lunch

My dad chose to sit at the back so we could get fed first. But they pulled from each side of the room and then the middle, so we ended up being last. It was wraps again, like they always serve at SU functions. And since we were starving by the time we got to the line, I took two half wraps and a croissant sandwich, and felt no shame.




12:45 Summer Orientation Overview &
Orientation Advisor Introductions

This is where we met our small group leaders. My letter was C.


1:15 Seattle University’s Jesuit Education

Another very very boring speech. Two of my friends and I fell asleep.




2:10 Off to Class

Here I learned about the college I in particular was entering into, Matteo Ricci. That is where I get two majors (not just a double major, but like two diplomas and I walk twice and everything). One degree in Humanities, and one in either journalism or psychology(the second is my choice). This was the first of many times where I had to introduce myself to an entire class full of people (or at least 20 people). The professor here, Dr. Madsen, was particularly funny, I liked him.



3:00 Break
I snarfed a cookie and some lemonade.

3:20 School or College Presentations

More Matteo Ricci. We heard from students also. Actually informative.




4:15 Our Diverse Community

About all the different races and religions and preferences at SU, which is oddly diverse for being a Catholic Jesuit school. Could have been more interesting than it was.




5:15 Home Sweet Home

About dorming. Clever name huh? We got to ask RAs questions and got a list of what to bring and what not to bring.


6:15 Dinner

Italian. Surprisingly yummy. Especially the lemon bars!


7:15 SU “Real World”

Skits from the PHAT dept (Something and Health Advice Team or something). The skits were actually pretty good and this was one of the better recieved workshops.


8:00 Small Group Community Time

Exactly what it sounds like. Bleh! I am not a fan of small groups. And we played waaayyy too many ice breakers. Also my least fave.


9:00 Redhawk Social

Live band. free ice cream. Volleyball. Dodgeball. Karaoke. Board Games. My friends and I took random pictures then sat in a circle outside and told stories. Then we showered and hung out in Ariel's room but we felt bad for her roommate who we didn't know so we all moved to Lyndsie and I's room (Lyndsie and I are good friends from Kennedy and hope to be roomies next year). After they left at about 12:45, we tried to go to sleep.




7:30 Room Checkout & Breakfast

Lyndsie and I got up at 6:15 because we like being on time and we didn't have to rush. Breakfast was surprisingly good. My dad met us (me and three girls I know) for breakfast, but my friends think he is a laugh riot, for reasons I don't know =)

8:30 Nuts and Bolts

Financial Aid. Healthcare ish.


9:30 Group 1 Advising & Fall Class Schedules

Group 2 Campus Technology
Group 3 Academic Success
Group 4 Campus Card
Group 5 Spirit, Faith & Community

Although we were separated into groups, I was in group 3. This workshop was super boring and overly long. They tried to teach us to time manage, which we already know, but just don't do.


10:25
Group 3 Campus Technology

They taught us how to log onto the computers and forward our email. Then the rest of the forty minutes we all spent on myspace.


11:20
Group 3 Advising & Fall Class Schedules
I already had my schedule, and have since June because of Matteo Ricci, so I kinda just sat there.



12:00 Lunch

I had to go to the Costco Scholars Luncheon since they gave me a scholarship. We had burgers. And now my dad is all a twitter because you can get internships from them.


1:00

Group 3 Spirit, Faith & Community

Normally you'd think this would be a boring session. But it was about campus ministry and very informative and fun looking and I think I will join next year.


1:55

Group 3 Campus Card
This was very important, but only took about ten minutes, and then we had to play ice breakers until the next thing. I was ice breakered out so my friend martha and I just sat out.
2:45 Orientation Closing
3:15 Luggage Pick up & Departure
And then home, thank God!

Normally...

I don't do more than one post in a day, but this is special. Unfortunately, this morning Estelle Getty passed away at 84 years old.

Noted most for her role as Sofia in the Golden Girls, she was by far the funniest and my favorite. She was the Queen of One Liners, delivering them in a deadpan voice.

She lived a long life, although she regrettably suffered from dementia in her later years. She will be missed by Betty White, Bea Arthur, Rue McClanahan and the rest of the Golden Girls cast as well as all of her adoring fans.

(Sophia accidentally takes the Pope's ring home).

Sophia: This may be my shot at getting into the Bible!

Dorothy: The Bible's a done deal.

(from this morning's Golden Girls, The Pope's Ring)

Read more here

Recession Mindedness

So this post was supposed to be about my top vacation spots, and not that that it isn't a good question that I will certainly be revisiting later (!), but several indicators stopped me in my tracks:

1) I have at least twelve vacation spots I want to go to, so picking favorites will be super hard.

2) That guy in the car insurance commercials who says "If we're not in a recession, it sure feels like it!"

3) My dear friends at BunnyShop reminded me how expensive everything is getting.

4) Yesterday I looked into my checking account and although I swear the last time I checked (around the 10th of July) I had like $550, I now only have like $129!! It's only been 12 days, and I swear (!!) that I didn't spend that much since then! So word to the wise, check your account more than once every 12 days. Good thing I get paid Friday or I could be in serious trouble!

5) I realized yesterday morning that I will owe Wells Fargo 80 THOUSAND dollars in four years once I am done with SU. So I'm virtually in debt from now until 2020.

And thus, who has money to go on vacations? Not me! So instead, everything in today's blog is $10 under!!! And as a disclaimer, as I am sure my dad will remind you all, the best solution to this darned recession is to not spend. At all.

To me, this is the perfect summer top. It has a lower cut neckline, but not obscenely so. It is banded at the bottom to hopefully allow more tummy room. And it's basic and goes with everything. And also comes in green and white for those of you who like a more cheery top. And I would also like to mention the sleeves on this, I like 'em. $6.99

So this shirt is also simple and summer-y, and I will tell you that if this is too skimpy for you and/or you are modest with your arms you can certainly wear it with a thin shirt under. I like the ties at the top, they are whimsical (Good use of the word Aunt Lennie! Although perhaps it is not as applicable here as it was yesterday). And this shirt comes in 8 colors! I of course like Berry Chutney and Deep Plum (Both purples, but then again it is my favorite color. Hence the noted appearance of purple in this blog). $4.99

This is the noted shirt I featured on the Fourth of July, only in tank top form and even cheaper! $3.99

So in Washington you need sunglasses maybe a month out of the year? As I type this it is gloomy and gray outside, see what I mean? So I buy and lose sunglasses quite often out of shear neglect of use. That's why I head to Forever 21 for sunglasses, they're all $5.80 all the time! I got these ones in particular Saturday when we were at an outdoor mall and I reached into my purse to get my old sunglasses and realized they had cracked almost at the nose and were useless. So I almost went for these purple ones, and then backed out because I am a wimp and got the same style but in black. But I would love if someone bought them in purple just to see!

Sandals! Which has a longer shelf life in Washington than sunglasses, we wear them even if it is cold, just with long pants and probably a sweater. But these are cute and purple and would even fit in with the dress code at my old school because they have heel support! And by the way, this picture doesn't really do them justice. $7.99

And lastly, a purse. In leopard print, which we know is one of my favorite prints, in fact I have a whole post dedicated to it. It's like my fourth favorite pattern (1:argyle, 2:houndstooth, 3: gingham, 4:leopard print, 5:zebra print). So this bag is cheap and uhm leopard print. And on that note... $10

I Hope You All Didn't Miss Me TOO Much! =)

So orientation at SU was fabulous. I had a lot of fun.

Today's topic is Cute!Fashionable!Affordable! Jewelry! One of my very favorite topics that I could go on and on about!

I really tried to limit myself to one or two pieces per category (earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings). I only have one pair of earrings here because, let's face it, they're a bit pricey. But this is the most expensive item on the list (promise!), and it's handmade, and they're just so cute! These earrings have a little red flower and a miniature "post card" that says I love you. Just too cute for words. $17.50

Apparently I am in a very playful mood today. This necklace is from Urban Outfitters and it's the "He Loves Me" necklace, as in "He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not". But instead of a daisy you have a necklace with a little spinner! Quite a conversation starter if you ask me! $12.99

While perusing Forever 21, I happened upon this necklace . Brief side note: if you want just one website to go to for cheap and fashionable jewelry, I would suggest Forever 21, hands down! They divide their enormous (!) jewelry collection into necklaces, rings, bracelets and earrings. I had a really hard time picking just one item from them. And while I was looking through the necklaces, I kept seeing all these charms, and I remember thinking, "I wonder if they have a fortune cookie necklace?". And low and behold, they did! Talk about coincidences! $6.90

Gotta admit, not much of a bracelet person. Especially since I moved to Washington, often I am wearing a long sleeved shirt or jacket, and so you can't even see my bracelets. But, I liked these. I like the pink and burgundy color scheme and the fact that it looks a little middle eastern-y or Indian inspired. These are simple, and could go with a lot. $6.99

Ok, bracelets, not my fave. But rings have always been my favorite. (Then it's earrings, and then necklaces.) But I digress. I had this one ring that my parents gave me one Valentine's Day that I wore from 3rd to 8th grade every day. And they gave me this beautiful Quartz and white gold ring that also has small real diamonds on the side for my 18th birthday that I've worn every day since then. I just really love rings, the blingier the better! As you will see by these two rings. They are both from Forever 21. I like that this one is a set, and kinda resembles an engagement set. (Fyi: I am also a little wedding obsessed. I have a favorites folder dedicated to weddings, and InStyle Weddings in my magazine rack. I even bought a replica Jessica Simpson wedding set in the height of her Newlyweds fame, when I was obsessed with that show. I was so angry when it went on sale for $25 and I had paid $50). $5.80

So this ring actually kinda looks like my 18th birthday ring. Except my large quartz stone is more oval than round and there are four diamond specks on each side. But close enough. And muuuccchhh cheaper. $4.80

Thanks for this question, Library daisy ;) ! I hope that somewhat answered it. Also, I just have four words for you : NEW SEASON PROJECT RUNWAY!! (I'd been dying to tell you that since you arrived at work, but we were both so busy. Oh well, there's always tomorrow!)

I just discovered...

The button where you can add multiple pictures instead of having to do them one at time. I am a dork. Anyways! Stores! My Favorites!

Ok, so the other day I was thinking about this (and I mean really thinking about it, and this was before I even remembered I was doing a top favorite store post) and I have determined that I could go through life only shopping at Target and Old Navy and be perfectly content and set. Fo reals. Because really? Target has everything. They have all the things I like to buy, like clothes (which have gotten better over the years), jewelry, purses, shoes, books, DVDs, iTunes cards, magazines, food, make-up and office supplies (tell me I did not just mentally go through our local Renton Target and put all my regularly visited sections in the order I visit them. See I told you I visit Target a lot. Or Tarjay as it is frequently heard.) So really, I would never have to shop anywhere else. And they even have stuff I don't need now but may need in the future (whether near or not) like Kitchen Utensils and Kitchen Appliances! Towels! Bedding! Garden Supplies! Exercise Equipment! Camping Supplies! Pet Stuff! Paper Towels and Cleaning Supplies in General! Anything from the Automotive department! It really is like one stop shopping! And their prices are so cheap! OMG, so this lady got paid by this one blogging company to, well.... you'll hear next week, I don't wanna spoil the surprise. But anyhoot. I would so blog about shopping only at Target for a year if someone paid me ( or I might actually even do that for free, which is the sad thing).

So obviously Target is my favorite store, number one. But coming in at a close second is Old Navy. There are days when my entire outfit is Old Navy (and some days it's entirely Target, see what I mean?). Because, while Target is great for pretty much everything, their clothing section is still a touch limited. So for when I want something different I head to Old Navy. And they fulfill a lot of my needs. They are cheap and fit within my budget. They have my size widely available. And they are trendy, which for me, is a good thing. And everything comes in a wide variety of colors. And did I mention cheap? Especially when you are lucky enough to get stuff on sale, then it's like super cheap. I just love them.

I have to admit that any stores besides Target and Old Navy are not nearly in the same stratosphere, but I was asked for five stores and I feel these next three stores should at least get honorable mentions. H & M is a great clothing and accessories store that is mostly available in Europe (the above picture was taken by yours truly in Amsterdam. Where H & M's are practically like Starbucks here and I had to go in every.single.one.), the East Coast, and California, but like in the obscure and ritzy parts. But, oh happy day, they are putting in three (three!) H & M's in the Seattle area (one in the mall nearby and two in Seattle) and I am so excited! The new H & M opens along with the new side of the mall on the 25th of July and I am very very very excited and will most def be there for opening day. My only lament over H & M is that they do not have very large sizes, so mostly I (of the larger sizes) go for the accessories, which are like Forever 21-ish prices.

Another store I like is Fuego, which is only in the Washington area as far as I know. The closest one is in the Auburn Supermall I believe (or Alderwood may be closer, I have no idea). Anyways, Fuego has mostly jewelry, accessories, scarves, headbands, books , stationary and some toys. It's just really kitchty (is that a word?) and unique and you know if you get something there not everyone will have it. Prices are moderate, but they have good sales if you manage to catch them.

Lastly, I have to throw out a thumbs up to Urban Outfitters. I will say that their clothes are on the small side and they are kind of overpriced and I only go there for accessories and shoes which are also overpriced. So really I have no idea why I like this store, but I really really do. You should just check out their website and see.

Honorable mentions also to Sephora and Ulta (both make-up stores) and Barnes and Noble and Borders.

So you all, I will be gone for the next two days at Seattle U's orientation (so will my dad, unfortunately for you all and for me haha), and then I don't blog on the weekends, so the next time you will hear from me is Monday, the 21st. But in the meantime, leave me lots and lots (and lots) of comments! Feel free to contribute to the favorite song or movie posts if you haven't already, and leave comments for your favorite stores here!

Keep the Song (and now movie) lists coming!

Movies! Ok, so unlike songs, I am very adamant about my movies. And even though I've seen tons (you should see our movie collection. It's like Blockbusters down there in the basement), and yet my five favorite movies popped into my head, practically in order. And unlike my (current) favorite songs, my favorite movies have all stayed the same for several years now. Here are my top favorite movies. They are all my favorites so the order isn't always important, but I tried to put them in the order I like them now.

So, Clue. My friend Liz introduced this movie to me when we were like in seventh or eighth grade, and it was playing on HBO a lot at the time. So one day I watched it, and instantly fell in love. For one, I really like the board game Clue. Not that you have to like it to like this movie. I also rather like group comedies ( a la Blazing Saddles. Which sadly did not make my top five. But could almost be interchanged with Pirates and certainly gets Top Honorable Mention at the very least. I might throw it in at the end). Anyways, this is like a murder mystery with six people who play all the board game players plus a butler and they have all the weapons (knife, lead pipe, etc.) and they're trying to find out who killed Mr. Boddy (not a typo). And, surprisingly (or not) hilarity ensues. I may just have to share my favorite line: "Who are you?" "I'm the butler, sir". "And what do you do?" "I buttle, sir". Bahaha. Sorry, the first time I saw that I could not stop laughing. They have it at Target for 5.50 (don't let that deter you!) but I couldn't find that online. $6.99

The first two movies are under appreciated movies (in my opinion) that not many people have watched. This comedy came out in 2004. It's about three guys whose friend dies before the four of them could go on a trip so the three take the road trip to Oregon in his honor and they're like camping but they're pretty inexperienced and a lot of funny and weird things happen. It's really funny and Matthew Lillard is in it, who I rather like. It's a hard movie to explain in order for people to see the good aspects of, so you should just watch it! =) $11.99

This is not a comedy, nor is it recent. But I love love love this movie. I love love love loved the book and I have an odd fascination with the south. I think the actress who played Scarlett (fiddle lee dee! =) was perfect and so was Rhett. This movie has great scenery and not bad effects considering it was made in 1941. I also love the costumes so much, the party at Ashley's plantation comes to mind with all the girls in those pastel dresses comes to mind. Obviously, in some ways I am just as equally concerned with the visuals than with the plot, and this movie fed my eyes. I first watched it in 8th grade and then bought it and still do not hesitate watching it all the way through on many occasions. $13.99

When I was i the third grade, this was my ALL TIME Favorite movie. I was in love with Danny Zuko and consequentially John Travolta (Incidentally, I did not know that even then in 1999 he so did not look the same). And every year I wished we could have a Fun House at our school's yearly Fiesta (school carnival) so that I could mimic the final scene. Boy was I disappointed when they finally got one and it was way different and smaller than the one in the movie, haha. But anyways, this movie has anything a movie could want, love and music!! And I used to listen to the soundtrack over and over and went through a real oldies phase. But anyways, this movie is a classic. Because it was made in the 70's (?) and yet so many younger people like it. Even if my dad never fails to remind me it did not do well in the box office. I don't care. $13.49

I actually didn't see this in theaters, but when I came back to school the summer after it came out it was all anyone could talk about and I was upset I missed it. But initially I was all, "It's a movie about a ride at Disneyland. How good can it be?" Granted, even before the movie, Pirates of the Caribbean was my favorite ride. But still. And then when I saw it, I could see why everyone likes it. It has everything: Love! Action! Pirates! The Bahamas! Rum! Orlando Bloom! Johnny Depp!!! The story is surprisingly good and I'd say out of all three movies in the series, the first is the best! $14.99

And because it really is a good movie, and because my dad will be upset if I don't mention it, Blazing Saddles is also a really good, really funny movie. A really politically incorrect movie, but that's sort of what makes it funny I hate to say. Plus, I thought Borat was hilarious, so I just have that weird sense of humor. Blazing Saddles is a group comedy also and is a Mel Brooks movie, which is a good sign in my books. So check it out, having been warned though. $7.99

And lastly, like the title says, keep on commenting those song and now movie lists! I love reading them and hearing new tracks or titles to check out!!

And Lastly...

I have my (Current) Favorite Songs list. I say current because it is almost unfair to leave it out due to the fact that my favorite songs change weekly.

1. Leavin' by Jesse McCartney. My love for this song is almost embarrassing. It is my ring tone. Every time it comes on the radio or my iPod I blast it and sing along, and I don't even like singing. And I could honestly listen to it on a loop. I know this because I am right now. Just the way the song sounds is so perfect and breezy for summer and it almost is reminiscent of like 90's boy bandish pop, but way better. Jesse McCartney only had one other popular song, Beautiful Soul, which was also catchy. Did I mention that Jesse is also very cute. God, I love this song.

2. Our Song by Taylor Swift. Country, but so catchy and cute. The words and the way she sings it really make the song. The whole story of it too, how I wish that was me in that song! =)

3. One Week by Barenaked Ladies. Really great, breezy, summery song too. The lyrics are really fast but if you listen closely they're cute and truthful at the same time.

4. Take a Chance on Me by ABBA. I doubt this will stay my favorite song, but for right now I love it!

5. All I Wanna Do by Sugarland. Country. But the important thing about this song is to go watch the music video. It's these two countries singers in what looks like Hawaii singing this song about love in what could be the most perfect scenery. I want to go wherever they are just because of the song, which by the way is catchy and is certainly a song that could stuck in your head!

Last of all, I eagerly invite all of you to contribute any of your songs, whether they be all time favorites or ones you've recently happened upon or just like for the summer or the moment.

Music and iTunes part Deux

My iPod, $299.99

You guys are all in for a treat, obviously, because I am going to Orientation for SU later this week, (Thursday and Friday), so I've decided to do three posts today instead of one. All music related, but then again, who doesn't like music?

So now for my list of Recently Added Songs. I feel they represent me more, and at least are more current than my Most Played Songs.

1. Take a Chance on Me by ABBA. Ok, hear me out, I know that they are not from my era. And I'm pretty sure some people find them annoying. BUT. I heard this song in Get Smart (Good movie! Go see it.) and then I promptly downloaded it to iTunes. And it is just so.darn.catchy. I can't even stand it. I dare you not to bounce along to the music and sing along! =)

2. Thizzle Dance by Mac Dre. More rap. I was recommended this song via MySpace by someone who dances to rap all the time. It's not too bad of a song.

3. Nuthin' But a G Thang by Dr. Dre and heavily featuring Snoop Dogg. Ok, so for those of you who don't like rap, I understand, but you might like this. It's definitely more old school rap with more prominent and meaningful lyrics. This is actually kind of a popular song and I first heard it in the movie Without a Paddle, and while it intrigued me, it's not as good being rapped by three nerdy white guys than by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg. I like it too because somewhere randomly in the song they go "City of Compton!" and also mention Long Beach.

4. Gin and Juice by Snoop Dogg. I hear this played a lot along with Nuthin' But a G Thang on our local rap station and it's also pretty old school.

5. Who I Am by Jessica Andrews. Country, actually. This is a newly explored music genre and I always swore up and down that I would never like country, but now I kinda do. Granted I mostly like the country that could practically be considered pop music, like Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, Sugarland, and some Tim McGraw and some other people. But this song is really good. It was actually pretty popular awhile ago, and is sorta old but good. You may have heard it, it's the one that goes "I am Rosemary's granddaughter The spitting image of my father And when the day is done my momma's still my biggest fan".

6. My Little Girl by Tim McGraw. This song is also good, sooo cute and sweet, and kinda makes me wanna cry. It's to his daughters, and all the words really resonate with me. You should all read the lyrics, they're great!

Happy Monday!

Let's see, one of my favorite topics! MUSIC! I never realized how much of a music fan I am until recently.... but I really like it and it's helpful when you're bored or tired or trying to drown out all the other sounds of people talking in the car. Not that I have any idea what that's like or if it works =)They are sort of a poor reflection of me, as 3/5 songs are rap, and while I like rap, these aren't necessarily my favorite songs. They are the top five played songs because back when I did not have 2209 songs I played the same songs over and over and these were pretty much it.

1. Right Thurr by Chingy. This song was like on NOW 14 and when I was just getting into rap. It's pretty pop-y for a rap song. I just like the beginning, where it's like "Uh, hey dirty, (what?)Look at that girl right there (oh)She make me say Ooh, ooh, (yeah) ooh, ooh, (hey) do what you do". Mmkay?

2. That's Dirty by Dirty. This song was actually in Malibu's Most Wanted (a severely under appreciated movie if you ask me, it's actually pretty funny). It's like in this dance party scene and all you really hear in the movie is "There was a lot of big pimpin', Cadillacs and women...". So of course I had to get it. Because that is how I roll. Word.

3. We Fly High by Jim Jones. This song made the phrase "Ballin'" popular. I really have no idea how it got played so much.

4. Dance, Dance by Fall Out Boy. I like FOB. They're alternative by the way, not rap. And when this song came out I went through an alternative/rock phase, and now I like both that and rap. Uhm the only lyric that stands out from this song though, is "Wishing to be the friction in your jeans". I know, scandalous!

5. It's Goin' Down by Nitti. More rap. I just like the opening line, "This is a Nitti beat".

It's a good one today =)

So the question was, if I could be any character from a book, which would I be? Of course I could baaarrreeeeellllyyy narrow it down to two. But the first protagonist that came to mind was Scarlett O' Hara. First of all, veerryy good book. Highly recommended and you can probably get over the length, I did! Scarlett is very attractive and has many gentlemen callers. She has all the dresses you could want and a nice big manor. She lives in the South, which I have always wanted to do for some reason. And yet, Scarlett also gets suckered into the wrong marriage because the man she truly loves marries his cousin and she never gets to be with him. And she goes through multiple marriages in the book, and her manor is overrun by Yankees and they get run out of town. And her daughter and parents die and at the end she is left alone. So her whole life isn't great and I can't say I'd want all the aspects of Scarlett, just certain aspects. But then again you can't have everything. $13.60

I also wouldn't mind being Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girls. It's actually pretty terrible, but I like that she has a huge apartment in NYC and shops at all these expensive stores like Bergdoff Goodman's, and she's very pretty. I even like that she has a bit of an attitude even if I do think they take it too far on the show, she's not that mean. Although, to be fair, I wouldn't mind being Serena either, she's nice, rich, and pretty, plus, as a perk, she gets to go out with Dan! Just my nerdy and poetry writing type! =) $10.99

And lastly, feel free to put in the comments section who you would be!

Sorry my dear devoted blog readers!

For posting so late. I was busy all morning and then went to work from 2-9! So here we go.

My dad suggested I write about some WWE DVDs that recently came out, but of course I and everyone else could care less about wrestling, so I decided to write about a few of the TV shows on DVD that I like (gee, I sure have been straying from fashion a lot these days! But it's ok because it makes me more well rounded and I can appeal to a wider audience!). So Golden Girls. I don't care that this show is from the 80's and the women all could be my great grandmas by now and are old on the show, I LOVE THIS SHOW. I love the humor and the wacky clothes and the sarcasm. Basically. $24.99

King of Queens (like Golden Girls actually) is in syndication so you can watch reruns like twice a day. This show is really really funny (all the characters for different reasons, Doug is kinda dumb but has a really good heart and is funny without trying, Carrie is funny in a mean way, and Arthur is just crazy). I recommend this show because it's so good for laughs. $23.49

This is actually a show I've been meaning to watch for awhile and just haven't. It is about King Henry VIII and his life, around the time between his first and second wives (he had six). I've always loved the stories of the House of Tudor and his family and wives and kids especially. It's like so much drama, Old English style. $27.99

Waiting for Numbness in my Mouth to go away!

Damn these infernal cavities (sorry)! My superjovial dentist told me I had to learn how to floss like crazy via the "School of Hard Knocks". End cliche. Onto college student weekend getaways!

MMkay, so travel! One area that I'm really interested in (like really) but have yet to delve into... so I'm excited!! So, I gotta be honest, I have been far too consumed with traveling to the Oregon coast for awhile. Oh, and here is where I add my disclaimer that I've only lived in two states, California and Washington, and really only have familiarity with those two states and the surrounding areas (i.e. Oregon!). So, if you were looking for anything on the East Coast or anywhere really besides the West Coast, I dunno, go ask someone else. Anyways, back to Oregon. The Coast! I will be using lots of exclamation points today! Erm. So I was aiming for the Cannon beach, Seaside, Rockaway area. They are noted for their laid back atmosphere and close by beaches with cool rock formations in the water and tide pools and ish. Which hooked me right there, ya dig? (I think the numbing medicine is still lingering =]). Add to this mixture that I have been trying to find a cheap place to stay there (note: The hotels there? Not so cheap) and I happened upon renting houses or cottages! So there's this website (link to follow) and they show rentals all over, and the best deal I could find is literally this little cottage that sleeps 6 but is so cheap I could virtually pay for it myself (virtually! I could also buy those Louboutins, but who wants to spend 1/5 of their savings on shoes?!). So yeah, this is quite the deal, and you could have a nice little relaxed vacation on the Oregon coast. Road trip! Granted, a) with gas these days, you're better off walking and b) it is only 4 hours and 38 hours from my current house, but approx. 16 hours from my old house in California, so Californians you're outta luck in this regard, unless you fly or set aside like more than a week of time off. $65/a night for weekdays and $85 for weekends fri thru sun

Like I said, CA and WA, that's all I got. I liked and picked this place because of the cheap price and I kinda love the decor. Coke dining set? Sign me up! It's in Venice, CA and I have driven through Venice, and it looks like such a FUN CITY! Like you can walk to the beach or go to clubs or shop antiques and have spin class all in the same general vicinity. A place you could go close by in CA while still getting away and relaxing. Oh, and if Tori and Dean still had their Inn in Fallbrook, I'd post that too =) $75 daily

So I hope that helped all you travel minded readers, especially since it was reader mail. And if anything, I hope you got some general and new ideas like: House Rentals! Little known vacations spots like the Oregon Coast! etc.

Lastly, my mom helped me demonstrate an excellent point, she was the one to post about the cute and cheap purse from Forever 21 in the last blog comment section. If any of you readers see a cute option that fits into the suggestions for any reader questions, go right ahead and post them. We'd all (especially me) like to hear any suggestions!!

A Big, White, Fashionable Bag

So, you guys are amazing. The request for reader mail has already surpassed what I thought it would be... so good job! First up, we have a request for a big, white, fashionable bag... which I hope and think I have fulfilled in these purses. And once again, thanks everyone, and keep the reader mail coming! =)

This one is from Urban Outfitters and certainly qualifies as big, as you can see from the picture. It's a little off-white, but it's close enough I'd say. Plus I love that it's a neutral so you can wear it with virtually everything. And it's so the perfect size for me to throw all of my junk in. $59

Ok, so this one is from Target (love!). The great thing about Target and some other websites I happened upon is that you can search among the hand bags by color. So it was pretty easy to navigate Target as opposed to Macy's or Nordstrom. OK, but anyway, I like this one because it's big and because of the slight rock and roll feel from the grommets. Cute huh? $19.99

This one I found at Spiegal (which I know virtually nothing about except that my mom used to get a catalog). This one is supposed to look like a really cute Fendi bag, but that one is like two thousand dollars. This one is much more affordable, if lacking a bit in the looks department compared to the other one. $17.99

Target also. Very cheap. Veerryy simple. And yet, I rather like it!$13.99

First of all...

I love Heather and I. Peep the conversation we just had:
Ally: so kinda random but have you seen rock camp?
Heather: no I haven't
Heather: I've been meaning too
Ally: I haven't either
Ally: but I've heard its like hsm (High School Musical) at camp
Heather: yeah
Heather: except more jonas brothers-y
Ally: right
Heather: they actually sound like girls
Ally: bahaha
Ally: and dress kinda like em too
Ally: I mean have you seen how much louis vuitton they're always carrying?
Ally: possibly more than jessica simpson!
Heather: haha yeah

That is just a taste of the humor you will be receiving from Heather in a short while, a blog post is in the works.

Secondly, here is where I request and bequeath that you all send in reader mail! For those of you unfamiliar with reader mail, it's where you email me a question at grabmynotebook@yahoo.com about anything (or almost anything), for example: swimsuit ideas, book recommendations, lipgloss favorites, what to wear to a summer party, what kind of side I like to go with my BBQ, etc. The best or ideal reader mail would be the kind I can answer with examples and even more ideally is fashion or tangentially related to fashion (but I also deal with electronics and reading and family ish so you never know. In other words, don't hesitate to ask). If you need an example of reader mail, check here.

In the meanwhile, I will just sit around, wait for reader mail, and look at exquisitely delish shoes that are also out of my price range. By the way, these are Christian Louboutins, and a shoe I dream about owning. These are not my favorite or the best looking, but they are the cheapest of the lot. $520